The 50 Most Welcome States in the USA

At first, the locals (especially those in the upstate) may New York City may seem overwhelming at first, but if you give it time, you'll find that each of the five boroughs has distinct neighborhoods with a strong sense of community. Don't block the sidewalk or get in the way of traffic while taking photos for Instagram, though.

If you're from Arkansas (emphasis on if), you'll find the locals to be extremely welcoming. While that's great for locals and the state's reputation for neighborliness, it can make visitors to the state feel like outsiders who don't belong.

Although the entire state of Delaware can be covered in 90 minutes by car, the people living there are hardly neighborly. Do our readers view Delaware as unwelcoming because of the state's (possibly unfair) stereotype as a dull place to live? In a sad twist of fate, it's considered one of the least welcoming states in the USA.

The people of Massachusetts aren't intentionally rude, but their apathy toward tourists can be wearing. Massachusetts isn't exactly going to make the list of friendliest states in America if its residents have a tendency to ignore their fellow citizens. Acceptance as a native Bostonian, as opposed to a tourist, can take years.

The Jersey way of life can come across as rude. And based on the results of this poll, it appears to be the case. It's common knowledge that people from New Jersey have bold, outspoken characters. The (likely) unfriendly gas station worker will pump your gas, though.

Washington state may be near the top of lists of environmentally-friendly states, but that doesn't mean its residents are. It's not that people in Seattle are rude per se, but rather that they give off a "polite but unfriendly" vibe, hence the nickname "Seattle freeze." Perhaps the constant downpours are to blame.

New Hampshire is a gorgeous state full of patriotic citizens. But that pride is often misunderstood as arrogance by those on the outside. It can be difficult to make friends among the locals, and the area's sparse rural population doesn't help.

Nevada, the site of the infamous Sin City, is a state of striking contrasts. In contrast to the cutthroat atmosphere of Las Vegas, more relaxed destinations like Reno offer a more pleasant vacation experience. People in Nevada generally aren't very willing to go out of their way to assist a complete stranger.

Florida has its work cut out for it, as Miami is consistently ranked as one of the unfriendliest cities in the United States. Cities like Orlando, with their tourist-friendly initiatives, are doing a lot to improve the state's reputation, but Florida as a whole still has a ways to go.

Some people who aren't native Rhode Islanders just can't shake the feeling that they don't belong there. Readers of Big 7 Travel didn't give Rhode Islanders high marks on the publication's "friendliness scale." Neighborhood cashiers are friendlier in smaller towns, but in general, don't expect a warm welcome anywhere.

Readers of this publication disagree with the widespread belief that Californians are particularly friendly. When it comes to friendliness toward visitors, Los Angeles is no City of Angels. In fact, the city has an air of indifference that occasionally crosses the line into rudeness. Compared to larger cities, those in the countryside tend to have a more relaxed vibe.

You won't mistake Arizonans for being as outwardly friendly as those in the South, but they tend to be chill about most things. When waiting in line, it's the kind of place where total strangers will start talking to each other; however, you shouldn't count on anyone being particularly happy to see you. Instead, it's a pleasant indifference to other people.

The people of Connecticut are friendly and polite, but also somewhat reserved. That's not the case at all While residents of New England may have a reputation for being cold, they will still open doors and greet you warmly when you visit. The state isn't exactly a hotbed of artistic expression, but open mike nights and other community gatherings do their part to keep people connected.

Although Alaska is quite remote, the tourism industry is vital to the state's economy, so locals are always happy to see visitors. And, with the exception of Alaska Natives, the vast majority of current locals can relate to the experience of being a stranger in a strange land. They may do so, or they may simply ignore you; either way, they are not rude.

When you visit Montana, you'll be pleasantly surprised by the friendliness of its residents. Even though it's a large state, it feels more like a large town. There's no chance of being invited over for tea, but these people are pleasant enough. Cities joke and tease one another in a way that is lighthearted and friendly, especially to visitors.

Virginia's increasing diversity is making the state even more inviting and friendly. Washington, D.C., is a cultural mecca, but some might say that it's too traditional and too wary of strangers. C and other major urban centers make it a great place to live.

The people of Vermont are known for being warm and welcoming. Since tourism is so important, residents will generally go out of their way to assist guests. People in Vermont's smaller communities may take some time to warm up to newcomers, but once they do, you'll have friends for life.

People in North Carolina are known for their politeness, friendliness, and willingness to help both visitors and locals. At Walmart, in the parking lot, or even while waiting at a red light, people will randomly say "hi." A notable aspect of the state is the diversity of its inhabitants.

Utahns are known for their warm hospitality, so you should feel right at home here. Salt Lake City is one of the most welcoming large cities in the United States for the LGBTQ community, and it also has a wonderful social scene.

Our readers seem to agree that Maine is an attractive state to relocate to because of its low crime rate and generally welcoming locals. Contrary to popular belief, Mainers are not as reserved as their New England counterparts. This is the first thing you'll notice when you get here.

West Virginians are among the most hospitable and warm-hearted people you'll meet anywhere in the United States. Life here is relaxed, making for a friendly ambiance. There is a tight-knit sense of community in West Virginia because the state is largely isolated from the rest of the country by mountains.

The people of Iowa are known for their friendliness and politeness; it's common to see them greet complete strangers as they pass one another on the street and even wave. There is a genuine sense of community, with friendly cashiers and farmers selling their wares on the side of the road.

While most Michiganders like to think of themselves as hospitable, those in Detroit and Ann Arbor in particular can be tough. People here have a great sense of humor, are laid back, and are incredibly polite.

The population density in Maryland is high, and the state is also home to a wide range of cultural traditions. Because of its welcoming attitude toward strangers, it has a thriving, social atmosphere. Making new best friends in a Baltimore bar is a breeze.

Wisconsin is a shining example of the best of the Midwest; its residents are known for their politeness, community spirit, and positive outlook. Green Bay is consistently ranked as one of the happiest cities in the country, so its residents' easygoing demeanor is hardly surprising. Do the Packers play a role in this at all?

In spite of its great residents, this is one of the least-visited and least-populated states in the United States. People from North Dakota are known for being approachable and helpful, often without any sort of payment or reward being expected in return. The community spirit in the state received high marks from our readers.

When it comes to neighborliness, Oregonians have a stellar reputation. Sure, it may be difficult to break into Portland's hipster scene, but the people there are nice (I swear!). It also has the highest percentage of pet-friendly households in the United States.

Mississippi is a lovely state full of genuine Southern hospitality. Foreigners are often taken aback by the warm welcome they receive in Mississippi. Once you stop trying to convince them that life is better "up North," the locals will treat you like family and treat you like you always belonged there.

Before you've even had the chance to say "hello," people in Missouri will launch into a detailed recounting of their lives. They are genuine in their friendliness and interest in conversing with strangers.

You'll find Alabama to be a very welcoming place if you maintain a positive disposition. Keep that in mind, and you'll find that Alabama is among the friendliest states in the Union. Just because they want to be nice, strangers will do nice things like hold the door open and help you carry your groceries to your car.

There are many progressive, forward-thinking communities in South Dakota that are home to enthusiastic and welcoming residents. People will strike up conversations with complete strangers about anything from the weather to a football game, even in the biggest cities. People in this region are the epitome of the term "Midwestern nice."

It doesn't matter who you are or what you're doing, you'll find that people in Kentucky are always friendly. The friendly locals don't care if you were born and raised here or if you're just passing through. The warmth and hospitality of Kentuckians is enough to make you pack your bags and move here tomorrow.

Cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, which you might not immediately associate with friendliness, actually are. The slogan "You've Got a Friend in Pennsylvania" was coined for good reason, as the locals genuinely enjoy making new friends. It received high marks from our readers for the amount of assistance it provided from total strangers. Look lost A friendly local is likely to assist you.

Most residents of New Mexico's towns and cities are warm and welcoming. It has a chill vibe and a rich variety of cultural influences. Furthermore, two cities in New Mexico's top retirement destination for LGBT people Now you know

Population: 10 This state in the southern United States has a population of over 3 million and a diverse landscape of urban and suburban areas, but its residents are known for their warm hospitality. Even in larger cities like Atlanta, getting to know people is simple. In a survey conducted by Big 7 Travel, Georgia received a score of 4.5 out of 7.

Overwhelmingly, our readers agreed with the claim that Idahoans are among the friendliest people in the United States. The locals are genuinely nice, and not in a stalkerish manner. The state of Idaho lives up to its reputation for friendliness and openness to visitors.

Chicago and the rest of Illinois, and the rest of the Midwest, are home to incredibly warm and welcoming people. Even though New York City is widely considered to be the most tourist-friendly city in the United States, Chicago has recently overtaken it. As an added bonus, 19 of the safest cities in the United States are located in Illinois, making it a great state to visit.

Nebraskans are among the friendliest people you'll meet anywhere in the United States. Everywhere you look, people are pitching in to help one another, giving off an overwhelming sense of community. If you can master the "one finger" wave while driving, you'll blend in like a native.

Locals make an effort to make visitors feel at home despite the area's recent history of natural disasters. Even though Louisiana is home to a wide variety of cultures, its residents have one thing in common: they make it one of the friendliest and best places to live in the United States.

If you want to see good manners and a genuine interest in others in action, look no further than Ohio. They welcome visitors and are happy to recommend their favorite restaurant or bar. It's also fantastic for families, as there are many things to do here that are geared toward younger visitors.

Visitors to Hawaii receive exceptional service because the state places a premium on the tourist industry. Due to its "Aloha Spirit," it has gained international recognition. Everyone here seems happy all the time, so it's safe to assume that paradise does something good for the spirit.

Oklahoma is one of the friendliest states in the United States, and its capital city, "The Big Friendly," is appropriately named. The locals here are always up for a chat and will always look out for their own. They are just as welcoming to outsiders.

Visitors from other states may be taken aback by the famous friendliness of Kansans, so they should be ready to strike up conversations with complete strangers. The friendly nature of the locals is one of the state's many attractions.

As a progressive state with some of the friendliest people on the planet, Colorado is a great place to visit. It's great for taking the kids, has a ton of interesting things to do, and will have you feeling more at home in no time. You can feel the warmth of this place right away, no matter if you're in Denver or the middle of nowhere.

The people of Indiana take great pride in their legendary "Hoosier hospitality," in which they routinely go out of their way to help strangers. The locals have a positive disposition and a great sense of humor. Indiana is more than just a "fly over" state; after visiting, you'll always remember it as home.

Even though Wyoming is a relatively tranquil state, its residents make visiting here a blast. Even in large cities, it is not uncommon for a stranger to help you carry your groceries or free your stuck car from the snow. Don't bother getting out of the car. Hopefully, everything will be fine.

The friendly Texans and their constant "Howdys" Its reputation for welcoming visitors "everywhere you go" has helped make it one of the friendliest states in the United States. The locals in its major cities will make you feel right at home with their warm hospitality.

South Carolinians are known for their warm hospitality, which is one of the reasons the state is so enjoyable to visit. South Carolina embodies the Southern tradition of warm welcome with gusto.

Tennessee has that classic Southern charm going strong, with residents who are buzzing with excitement and eager to show off their city to visitors. When you factor in its vibrant music scene, it's easy to see why this is one of America's friendliest states.

The most welcoming state in the United States is People in Minnesota are known for being some of the friendliest in the country. It’s called ‘Minnesota Nice’ for a reason – the atmosphere in the Twin Cities and beyond is hard to match, with a homey feel and locals who go the extra mile to welcome tourists